Americans Financially ‘Planning with Purpose’ in 2026
Americans are gearing up for a year of “planning with purpose” in 2026.
Fidelity Investments’ Annual Resolutions Study found that more workers want to be intentional in their financial planning through the new year, with 64% considering a financial resolution in 2026 compared to 56% in for 2025. Of those who have a financial resolution, 36% say they’re prioritizing these goals more than ever before.
Americans are determined to hit their financial targets in 2026, as they end a year marked by financial stress and exhaustion. Fidelity reports that Americans are feeling financially stressed over having enough money to save after paying monthly bills (35%), being able to pay their bills (34%), having enough savings to retire as planned (30%), and affording healthcare costs in retirement (30%).
As a result, a greater number of workers are paying more attention to the market than in past years. For 2026, workers say they’re focused on the impact of inflation (45%) compared to 37% who indicated similarly in 2025.
“This past year has been a financial rollercoaster for many Americans – from rising prices in various areas to market volatility and then a rebound in the second half of the year,” says Amanda Lott, head of Financial Planning and Advice Capabilities at Fidelity Investments. “Committing to purposeful financial planning in all market environments is a smart strategy and helps to build confidence and lays a strong foundation for achieving short and long-term financial goals.”
Despite their worries, close to three-quarters (71%) of respondents to Fidelity’s study say they have a plan to reach their financial targets. Seventy-eight percent plan to build on their emergency savings, while others want to save more money (44%), pay down debt (36%), and spend less (30%). Overall, 80% of respondents believe that implementing a financial plan could help them better prepare for the unexpected.
“Creating a financial plan that is both purposeful and realistic is essential to achieving financial goals,” said Lott. “Leveraging the right tools and guidance, and taking small, strategic steps aligned with your current financial situation and future aspirations can help build momentum toward long-term financial well-being.”
More details from Fidelity’s Annual Resolutions Study can be found here.
Amanda Umpierrez is the Managing Editor of 401(k) Specialist magazine. She is a financial services reporter with nearly a decade of experience and a passion for telling stories and reporting news. She is originally from Queens, New York, but now resides in Denver, Colorado.